The Zanzibar Commission for Tourism has issued a public advisory urging tourists visiting the island to use only licensed tour operators and tourism service providers, following reports of individuals allegedly posing as legitimate operators and collecting payments for services that were either not delivered or not provided at all.
In a public notice dated July 21, 2026, the commission said visitors planning excursions and other tourism activities in Zanzibar should make official bookings through licensed tour operators to protect themselves from fraud and ensure they receive quality services.
The advisory follows reports of individuals misrepresenting themselves as legitimate tourism service providers while offering excursions and related services at seemingly attractive prices. According to the commission, some visitors have paid for transportation, safaris and other tourism-related activities, only to discover that the promised services were either not delivered as agreed or were not provided at all.
To safeguard tourists and protect the integrity of Zanzibar’s tourism industry, the commission advised all visitors to take several precautions before booking or paying for tourism services.
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Tourists were urged to use only tour operators and service providers licensed by the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism to conduct tourism activities. Visitors were also advised to verify accurate information about service providers before making any payments.
The commission further warned tourists against transferring money to unauthorised individuals who cannot provide proof of official registration or demonstrate authorisation from a licensed tour company.
Visitors who experience suspected fraud, misconduct or disputes related to tourism services have been encouraged to report such incidents directly to the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism.
The Zanzibar Commission for Tourism said it remains committed to ensuring that the tourism sector is safe, maintains high service standards and protects the interests of both visitors and tourism stakeholders.
The commission also encouraged tourists to rely on licensed service providers as an important step towards ensuring safe, enjoyable and memorable experiences while exploring Zanzibar’s attractions.
The warning comes as Zanzibar continues to promote itself as a leading tourism destination, with its beaches, historic sites, cultural heritage and hospitality attracting visitors from around the world. The tourism authority said ensuring visitor safety and protecting tourists from fraudulent operators remain essential to sustaining the island’s reputation as a preferred destination.
The commission concluded its advisory by welcoming visitors to “Zanzibar – the Island of History, Culture, and Exceptional Hospitality,” while urging them to remain vigilant and make informed choices when booking tourism experiences.
